UPSC CDS (Combined Defence Services) Eligibility 2026

Who can apply for UPSC CDS (Combined Defence Services) in 2026 — the age limit, educational qualification, nationality and attempt rules as specified by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Always confirm against the official notification before applying.

IMA — Indian Military Academy, Dehradun (Army, Permanent Commission)

Age: Approximately 19-24 years on the first day of the month in which the relevant course commences. The exact age window is fixed by the notification for each cycle — read the notification's date range carefully before applying.
Education: Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognised university, or an equivalent qualification. Final-year students may apply provisionally and must produce proof of graduation by the SSB stage in accordance with the notification.
Nationality: Unmarried male. Indian citizen, or subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or Tibetan refugee who came before 1 Jan 1962 with intent to settle permanently, or person of Indian origin migrated from specified countries (candidates from these latter categories require a certificate of eligibility from the Government of India).

INA — Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala (Navy, Executive Branch)

Age: Approximately 19-24 years on the first day of the month in which the relevant course commences. Exact band per the notification.
Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering from a recognised university / institution, OR a Bachelor's degree with Physics AND Mathematics at the 10+2 level (subject to the notification's specific eligibility text for that cycle).
Nationality: Unmarried male. Indian citizen with the same provisions as IMA. Must meet Navy-specific medical and visual acuity standards (uncorrected and corrected vision within prescribed limits, no colour-vision deficiency).

AFA — Air Force Academy, Hyderabad (Air Force, Flying Branch)

Age: Approximately 20-24 years on the first day of the month in which the relevant course commences. Upper age relaxation up to 26 years applies to candidates with a valid and current Commercial Pilot Licence issued by DGCA (subject to the notification).
Education: Bachelor's degree in any discipline (with Physics AND Mathematics at the 10+2 level) from a recognised university, OR a Bachelor's degree in Engineering. Must qualify the Computer Pilot Selection System (CPSS) and the Pilot Aptitude Battery Test (PABT) at the Air Force Selection Board.
Nationality: Unmarried male. Indian citizen with the same provisions as IMA. Must meet stringent IAF Flying-branch medical standards (Aircrew Medical, AAB Cat I) — height, weight, vision (6/6 in better eye, uncorrected), no colour blindness, no history of refractive surgery beyond permitted limits.

OTA — Officers Training Academy, Chennai (Army, Short Service Commission)

Age: Approximately 19-25 years on the first day of the month in which the relevant course commences. Slightly wider band than IMA/INA/AFA.
Education: Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognised university. No subject restriction at 10+2 level. Final-year candidates may apply provisionally per the notification.
Nationality: Unmarried male, OR married or unmarried female (OTA is the only CDS entry open to female candidates). Indian citizen with the same provisions as IMA. SSC officers serve an initial 10 years, extendable up to 14, with optional conversion to Permanent Commission subject to vacancies and merit.

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